Palhares signed by WSOF (vs Askren?)

World Series of Fighting officials today told USA TODAY Sports and MMAjunkie that the Brazilian submission ace has agreed to an exclusive, multi-fight deal with the Las Vegas-based promotion.

“Rousimar is one of the most talented athletes in mixed martial arts, and we’re excited to have him as a part of our organization,” WSOF President Ray Sefo said.

As for an opponent, WSOF officials said they’re still working on a matchup. However, WSOF officials recently expressed interest in signing former Bellator champion Ben Askren, who parted ways with his former home earlier this week. With the UFC apparently not interested in signing Askren, who’s ranked No. 7 in the USA TODAY Sports/MMAjunkie.com MMA welterweight rankings, sources close to the WSOF said the organization is interested in booking him against Palhares, though nothing has been signed.